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This summer, Demopolis Middle School buzzed with innovation and learning as over 20 students per session from grades fourth through eighth participated in two week-long STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) camps, thanks to a Alabama Community College System workforce development grant.

The camps featured two distinct daily sessions: morning STEAM and afternoon SOAR sessions. During the morning sessions, students engaged in creative design projects using CANVA and had the unique opportunity to bring their designs to life with a Glowforge laser cutter. Seventh grader Carlee McCants expressed her enthusiasm for the program.

“I enjoyed designing the projects in CANVA and assisting other students with their projects,” McCants said.

Wallace Community College-Selma, the grant awardee, played a crucial role in making these camps possible. The University of Alabama’s Technology in Motion also provided expert drone training for the students during the afternoon SOAR sessions.

Meggin Mayben, Demopolis public relations director and co-director of the camp, reiterated the value of hands-on experiences.

“This camp provides students the opportunity to explore hands-on experiences that are both educational and exciting, fostering a deeper interest in STEAM fields,” Mayben said.

Brandi Dannelly, camp co-director and Demopolis High School Career coach, emphasized the camp’s connection to business and industry.

“The camp allows kids to see the endless opportunities drones have created in business and industry,” Dannelly said.

A standout feature of the camp was drone soccer, an activity that teaches the principles of aviation and physical sciences while reinforcing teamwork, responsibility, and self-control. “Flying the drones was exciting. Ienjoyed running into the competition on the course,” said seventh grader Eli Halkias.

The success of the STEAM and SOAR camps underscores the importance of providing young students with access to advanced educational experiences, preparing them for future academic and career opportunities in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Wallace Community College works to provide high-quality learning-centered educational opportunities and services through diverse instructional-delivery modes that are responsive to individual, community, state, and global needs.

Learn more about WCCS at www.wccs.edu.

Information from Wallace Community College-Selma.